Soweto teacher handed four life sentences for brutal Diepkloof murders
The man was sentenced after a brutal incident that occurred on January 20 and 21, 2023, where the suspect accused the victims of stealing headlights from his vehicle.
Sandile Sibekezelelo Mbatha (32) was sentenced for the murders of Katleho Letseli and Tshidiso Ramatlo as well as attempted murder, kidnapping, and firearm-related offences committed in Diepkloof, Soweto.
The convictions come after an incident that occurred on January 20 and 21, 2023, near a tavern in Diepkloof after the accused and his accomplices accused the victim of stealing headlights from his vehicle.
The four victims were forcibly taken at gunpoint and driven to different locations where they were repeatedly assaulted with fists, bottles, and sharp objects.
Letseli and Ramatlo succumbed to their injuries. Two surviving victims were also severely assaulted and threatened with death during the ordeal.
One of the surviving victims identified the accused and provided the vehicle registration number used during the offence.
Police traced the vehicle to the accused’s residence and later arrested him at the primary school where he worked as a teacher.
During the trial, both the surviving victims identified Mbatha as the perpetrator. Their testimony was corroborated by the investigating officer, Sergeant Prince Mbonambi, as well as the identification parade evidence presented before the court.
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Senior State Advocate, Monde Mbaqa, argued that the accused kidnapped the victims at gunpoint, brutally assaulted them and stabbed them over allegations of stolen vehicle lights, showing extreme violence and disregard for human life.
Advocate Mbaqa further submitted that the offences were premeditated, committed with common purpose and warranted severe punishment due to their brutality and seriousness.
One victim testified that Mbatha repeatedly threatened to kill them and cut their throat.
The NPA remains steadfast in ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are held accountable and that justice is secured for victims and their families.
